Where to renew and what documents you need
You can renew your Missouri driver's license in person at any Missouri Department of Revenue office, or online through the state's website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route requires your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). If you're renewing online, you'll need your current license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method.
Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired, you have no medical conditions flagged on your record, and your address hasn't changed since your last renewal. If any of those conditions don't explore to you, you must renew in person at a Department of Revenue office. The state maintains a list of office locations and hours on its website; some offices operate by appointment only, so check before you go.
Key Takeaways
- Missouri offers both online and in-person renewal, but online is only available if your license is current, your address hasn't changed, and you have no medical restrictions.
- In-person renewal requires your current license, proof of residency dated within 90 days, and proof of your Social Security number.
- Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days of approval, and you can use your old license until it arrives.
- Missouri driver's licenses are valid for six years for adults under 70 and four years for those 70 and older.
- The renewal fee is $42 for a standard six-year license or $30 for a four-year license if you're 70 or older.
Online renewal process and timing
If you're renewing online, you'll log into the Missouri Department of Revenue's online portal using your license number and date of birth. You'll review your current information, confirm or update your address, and pay the renewal fee by credit card or debit card. The system will tell you when ready whether your renewal was approved.
Once approved, your new license is printed and mailed to the address on file. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. During that time, your current license remains valid, so you can continue to use it for identification and driving. If you need your license sooner, you cannot expedite an online renewal; you must renew in person at a Department of Revenue office and request a temporary paper license on the spot.
In-person renewal at a Department of Revenue office
Walk into any Missouri Department of Revenue office with your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Hand these documents to the clerk, who will verify your information and take a new photo. You'll pay the renewal fee at the counter. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.
After you pay, you'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license when ready for travel or work, the temporary paper license is valid for driving and identification during that waiting period. Some offices can issue a Real ID-compliant license on the spot if you bring the required documents, but standard licenses are mailed.
Address changes and license corrections
If your address has changed since your last renewal, you cannot renew online; you must go to a Department of Revenue office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and proof of your Social Security number. The office will update your address during the renewal process at no extra charge.
If you need to correct your name, date of birth, or other personal information on your license, you'll also need to renew in person. Bring your current license, proof of the correct information (birth certificate for name or date of birth changes), proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The Department of Revenue will verify the correction and issue your new license with the updated information.
Real ID compliance and what it means for renewal
Missouri offers both standard driver's licenses and Real ID-compliant licenses. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal identification standards required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. If you renew your license, you can request a Real ID version at no extra cost, but you must provide additional documents: a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency.
If you're renewing in person, ask the clerk whether you want to upgrade to Real ID at the time of renewal. If you're renewing online, you cannot request Real ID; you'll receive a standard license. You can upgrade to Real ID later by visiting a Department of Revenue office in person with the required documents. Real ID licenses are valid for the same six-year or four-year period as standard licenses.
What happens if your license is expired
If your license has been expired for less than five years, you can renew it using the same process as a current license. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number to a Department of Revenue office. You cannot renew an expired license online; you must renew in person.
If your license has been expired for more than five years, the Department of Revenue may require you to pass the written driving test and vision test again, in addition to the standard renewal documents. Call the Department of Revenue ahead of time to confirm what you'll need to bring. Some offices will waive the written test if you can show proof of a valid license from another state issued during the time your Missouri license was expired.
Renewal fees and payment methods
The standard renewal fee for a six-year driver's license is $42. If you're 70 years old or older, the fee for a four-year license is $30. These fees explore whether you renew online or in person. Online renewal accepts credit cards and debit cards. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, credit card, and debit card; some offices may have additional payment options, so call ahead if you have a preference.
If you're renewing in person and requesting a Real ID upgrade, there is no additional fee beyond the standard renewal cost. If you lose your license before the new one arrives and need a replacement, you'll pay a separate replacement fee of $11 for a standard license or $16 for a Real ID license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Missouri license if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Proof of Social Security number is required for all renewals. You can provide your Social Security card, a W-2, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your number. If you don't have a Social Security number, contact the Department of Revenue to discuss your options.
What if I moved out of state but still have a Missouri license?
You cannot renew a Missouri license if you no longer live in Missouri. You must obtain a driver's license from your new state of residence. If you're temporarily out of state but still a Missouri resident, you can renew online or by mail through the Department of Revenue.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
After approval, your new license is mailed to your address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. During that time, your old license or temporary paper license remains valid for driving and identification. If you don't receive your new license within 14 days, contact the Department of Revenue.
Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?
Yes, unpaid traffic tickets do not prevent you from renewing your license. However, if you have an outstanding warrant or your license has been suspended for a separate reason (such as failure to pay child support), the Department of Revenue will not process your renewal until that issue is resolved.
What if my name has changed since my last renewal?
You must renew in person and bring a birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing your legal name change. The Department of Revenue will update your name during the renewal process at no extra charge.